We all know we’re supposed to keep our skin moisturized. It’s one of those things that everyone tells us, and it’s true – keeping your skin hydrated is key to maintaining a youthful appearance.
Mainstream sources will tell you things like “drink lots of water” and “use a humidifier in the winter.” But I’m going to give you real advice that actually works. You don’t find these tips anywhere else!
1. Washing With Warm Water Helps the Skin Preserve Natural Oils
Showering with warm water instead of hot water is a small change, but it can be enough to help your skin stay soft and moisturized. You may be surprised, but that long, hot shower you thought was good for you could actually be stripping your skin of its naturally protective oils and contributing to dry skin. Who knew!
2. Never Wash With a Bar of Soap
Bars of soap have a high pH, disrupting your skin’s natural pH balance. Bars of soap not only dry out your skin, but they can contribute to long term damage because of the way it leaves a damaging residue on your skin’s protective barrier.
3. Use Hydrating Products If You Want Long Term Moisture
All cleansing gels are not created equal! Some simply cleanse the skin, while others cleanse the skin while replenishing any lost hydration in the process.
So what should you use? Use a gentle, liquid cleansing gel formulated specifically for dry skin or a cleanser with a moisturizing booster. You will immediately notice your skin is softer and smoother because it’s no longer being dehydrated by that old fashioned bar of soap.
4. Don’t Dry Off Completely After a Shower
Here’s one I am sure your dermatologist hasn’t shared with you: Do NOT completely dry off when you get out of the shower. That’s right, leaving the skin damp and applying a moisturizer before your skin dries completely will lock even more moisture into your skin!
When I get out of the shower, I simply blot my skin with my towel, instead of rubbing. This way, I don’t make a mess all over the bathroom floor, but my skin is still damp.
5. Moisturizing Before Bedtime Keeps Your Skin Super Hydrated
Another important step is to moisturize before bedtime. This helps replenish any moisture your skin lost during the day.
For those with excessively dry, cracked hands or feet, try moisturizing and then putting on gloves and socks to help lock in the moisture while you sleep.
6. Exfoliating Regularly Helps to Retain Moisture
Moisturizing is extremely important, but you’re not getting the full benefits if you’re skipping out on exfoliation.
When we have a lot of dead skin, makeup, and excess oil, our skin can’t retain moisture for very long. Exfoliating the skin sloughs off all that debris that is blocking the hydration from being absorbed. I recommend exfoliating at least 3 times a week, using a gentle chemical or physical exfoliator of your choice.
Keep Your Skin Moisturized This Fall With These 6 Easy Tips
By following these six simple tips for keeping your skin moisturized, you can make a real difference in the appearance of your skin. It’s not hard, but it does require a little effort.
So go ahead and drink plenty of water, but don’t forget to take care of your skin from the outside in as well!
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